6 Natural Remedies for Hypertension That Caregivers Need to Know

High blood pressure is a serious problem in modern America. Different sources give different figures, but everyone agrees that high blood pressure is widespread and far too common in the western world. There are many drugs that medical professionals like to prescribe to lower blood pressure. Most of these drugs are fairly effective, but many have serious side effects.

Thankfully, there are several proven natural remedies for high blood pressure that actually work.

Remedy #1: Basil

Most people already consume a small amount of basil on a regular basis, especially if they eat Italian food. This amount of basil certainly won’t hurt, but it’s not really enough to return your readings into a healthy blood pressure range. A supplement, however, could have a noticeable effect. Conversely, you could simply add a great deal of basil to your diet. It goes well in a salad or pretty much any Italian dish.

Natural Remedy #2: Cinnamon

Many people find cinnamon delicious, even more so than basil. It’s quite easy to add it to your diet, and it does actually work. Cinnamon is often consumed in cereal, oatmeal, and increasingly in coffee. However, it can spice up many dishes that people wouldn’t think of. Cinnamon can intensify the flavor of stir-fries, curries, and stews.

Natural Remedy #3: Cardamom

While you almost certainly have heard of basil and cinnamon, you probably haven’t heard of cardamom. Cardamom is a seasoning that is very common in the cuisine of India and other South East Asian cultures. Cardamom has been proven to be one of the most effective natural remedies for high blood pressure. There aren’t many cardamom supplements on the market, but the seasoning can be added to many foods with tasty results. It’s most often seen in spice rubs, stews, soups, and even pastries.

Natural Remedy #4: Flaxseed

Flaxseed has a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which are best known for being the healthiest ingredient in fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to the body in many ways, including lowering blood pressure. It does this in several ways, including lowering serum cholesterol, increasing glucose tolerance, and functioning as an antioxidant. It is possible to purchase a variety of different products that contain flaxseed, but the most effective way to consume flaxseed is to buy it ground and add it to your food. It is virtually tasteless, so it can be added to almost anything. It should be stored in the freezer to keep it as fresh and potent as possible.

Natural Remedy #5: Garlic

Many people are aware of garlic’s ability to lower blood pressure. However, you might not know that garlic actually lowers blood pressure by causing blood vessels to dilate, or expand. This allows blood to flow without restriction, which means blood pressure is lower. Many people don’t like the taste of garlic, but roasting it reduces the pungency. Alternatively, you can take it as a supplement.

Natural Remedy #6: Ginger

Similar to garlic, ginger causes vasodilation. This process lowers blood pressure, as described above. As with some of the other herbs on this list, it is commonly used in Asian cuisines. However, it is quite versatile. It can be used in pastries or even mixed drinks. Many people like to put it in their tea.

Always consult your doctor before making significant changes to your diet. Talk to your doctor before discontinuing or changing any medications.